Dentists can whiten teeth by a simple procedure, this is not something you can do at home in an efficient manner with the same level of results.
Dentists whiten teeth by a simple procedure,
but still not something you can do at home, at least not in a very efficient manner with the same standard of results. A dentist does this in a more professional manner, thanks to the specialised tools and techniques used.
Dentists can whiten teeth with hydrogen peroxide gel with a shield used to protect the gums. Usually all it takes is a single visit to the dentist lasting for around one and a half hours, although sometimes one or two sessions are required. The gel used is hydrogen peroxide which of a higher strength than hydrogen peroxide found in home tooth whitening kits. This, applied along with laser light brings out the best results.
Chair-side bleaching
The process by a dentist, also known as chair-side bleaching, involves first applying a protective gel on the gums to shield them from the harmful effects of the hydrogen peroxide-based gel. After protecting the gums, the gel is applied but not before removing plaque on the surface of the teeth. When the gel is applied, laser is also used on the area to be whitened in order to create a chemical reaction in the gel to bring about the desired effect. The depth of the stains determines the amount of time gel is allowed to stay on the teeth before being rinsed out.
Keeping Your Teeth White after the Treatment
There aren’t any significant side effects to chair-side bleaching as care is taken to protect the gums. However, you may experience temporary tooth sensitivity. Results appear in as short a time as a few days or sometimes a few months. In most cases though, it takes two to three weeks.
This type of teeth whitening lasts for up to a year, although it would be a good idea to refresh this whitening technique every 6 months. One of the ways to ensure your teeth remain white is to observe a diet that does not include substances that stain the teeth. For example, avoiding cranberry juice, red wine and espresso would help to ensure your teeth remain white for a longer period of time. Whitening toothpastes, available over-the-counter, can also help.
Impact on Crowns and Dental Additions
One thing to bear in mind is that any artificial additions to the dental structure, such as crowns, bridges and veneers will remain their original colour and can’t be whitened with your teeth. So if they appear out of place with your newly acquired whiter teeth, these dental additions can be replaced with new ones that will match with your new tooth colour.
If you don’t wish to go to the dentist for a chair-side bleaching session, you can purchase over-the-counter remedies such as whitening strips and trays, as well as the aforementioned whitening toothpaste. However, the most effective treatment, with individual attention being paid to each tooth, can only be received at a dental practice.
Now that you know how dentists whiten teeth, you’ll realise it isn’t a complicated or inconvenient procedure. The dentist whitens or bleaches your teeth most thoroughly and in the safest manner.
